Gov. Kelly spreads awareness for Multiple System Atrophy Jayden Smith/Salina Journal Governor Laura Kelly officially proclaimed March to be Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Awareness month in the state of Kansas Monday, adding the state to a small list of entities that recognize the distinction. MSA, previously known as Shy-Drager Syndrome, is a rare, deadly neurodegenerative condition that affects up to 50,000 Americans. Only 15,000 are currently diagnosed with the disease. Gregg Root of Abilene has lived with MSA for two years and said it is pivotal to raise awareness and have community support. “I think it’s very important,” Root said. “It’s not unusual to go to the hospital, or into the doctor's office, and have the doctor say he’s never heard of it.”